Welcome to Tamil Nadu, where the allure of lush green landscapes, misty mountains, and stunning beaches beckons travelers from faraway airports in Tamil Nadu.
Amidst this picturesque backdrop, the state proudly hosts a network of modern airports in Tamil Nadu.
Strategically positioned across critical cities, these airports serve as gateways for both domestic and international visitors to have the list of airports in Tamil Nadu.
Boasting contemporary facilities and infrastructure meeting global standards, these seven airports offer seamless travel experiences.
Moreover, their strategic locations ensure convenient access to the state’s myriad attractions. From the historic marvels of ancient civilization to the tranquil beauty of its natural landscapes.
Tamil Nadu welcomes you to embark on a journey of discovery and delight. Experience the seamless mixture of tradition and modernity as you explore the treasures of this enchanting state.
Chennai International Airport
Chennai International Airport ranks among the airports in Tamil Nadu India in terms of traffic volume, trailing only behind Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
Managing over 400 aircraft movements daily, it is the 47th busiest airport in Asia. Moreover, it is the second airport in Tamil Nadu to offer metro connectivity, facilitating easy access to various parts of the city.
Furthermore, international airports in Tamil Nadu serves as the headquarters for the Airports Authority of South India, overseeing operations in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry.
This strategic location enhances its connectivity and importance in the region. With regular flights to destinations like Nellore, Ambattur, Tirupati, Bangalore, and Puducherry, it serves as a crucial transportation hub.
Among the numerous airports in Tamil Nadu, Chennai International Airport stands out as the largest, catering to domestic and international travelers.
Coimbatore International Airport
Coimbatore International Airport serves the city of Tamil Nadu and is located 13km from the city center in Peelamedu.
Regarding passengers, this airport is regarded as the 19th busiest airport; for cargo, it is the 14th busiest airport. The government granted the airport international status on October 2, 2012.
Coimbatore Airport has a single runway stretching around 9,760 feet, vast enough to accommodate larger aircraft.
As one of the prominent airports in Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore International Airport is well-connected to other cities and towns such as Chennai, Munnar, Bangalore, and Ooty.
Regular bus service from Singanallur, Ukkadam, and Gandhipuram bus stations is available to the airport. Coimbatore Junction is the nearest railway station.
Moreover, the airport’s strategic location enhances its significance as a vital regional transportation hub.
Madurai International Airport
Strategically situated near State Highway 37 and approximately 12 km from Madurai railway station to Madurai International Airport is the 4th busiest airport in Tamil Nadu for passenger traffic.
Initially utilized by the Royal Air Force during World War II in 1942, it was officially established as an airport in 1957.
Operating regular flights to international destinations such as Dubai, Singapore, and Colombo, the airport also boasts over 30 weekly non-stop domestic flights to key airports in Tamil Nadu India cities like Chennai, Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bangalore.
Moreover, Madurai International Airport hosts a comprehensive cargo complex featuring cold storage facilities for perishable goods.
Notably, the airport inaugurated its first international cargo service on December 15, 2017, with Spicejet transporting 300 kg of Madurai Malli (Jasmine) to Dubai.
This expansion solidifies its position as a vital transportation hub in Tamil Nadu and another way to explore Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu.
Tiruchirappalli International Airport
A mere 5 km from the bustling heart of Tiruchirappalli, Tiruchirappalli International Airport is a pivotal transportation hub in Tamil Nadu.
Nestled along the Tiruchirappalli-Pudukkottai National Highway, this airport spans 702 acres of land, boasting the distinction of being India’s smallest airport, yet it holds significant importance as the state’s second-largest, trailing only behind Chennai.
With a runway length of 1372 meters, it caters to domestic and international flights, accommodating approximately 470 travelers during peak hours.
Its two terminals, one dedicated to passengers and the other to cargo, facilitate seamless operations. Acquiring international status in 2012, courtesy of India’s Civil Aviation Ministry.
This airport, managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), proudly flaunts its integrated terminal sprawled across 11,777 square meters. It is equipped to handle up to 490,000 passengers and is a testament to Tamil Nadu’s aviation prowess.
Tuticorin Airport (Thoothukudi Airport)
Tuticorin Airport, also known as Thoothukudi Airport, opened its doors in 1992 and is set to be the 5th International Airport in Tamil Nadu.
The airport lies approximately 17 km from the city center and can accommodate about 72 passengers during peak hours. It ranks among the top domestic airports in Tamil Nadu.
It offers connections to various southern destinations, including Ramanathapuram, Virudhunagar, Tenkasi, and Tirunelveli, alongside flights to Bangalore, Hubli, and Chennai.
Despite its current stature as the 5th busiest airport in Tamil Nadu, plans for expansion are underway. The government has proposed extending the existing 1,350sqm-long and 30-meter-wide asphalt runway to 3,115 meters long and 45 meters wide.
Moreover, a new terminal capable of accommodating 600 passengers and parking bays for larger aircraft is on the agenda.
Additionally, approximately 110 acres of land are reserved for the operational base of the Indian Air Force and the Indian Coast Guard.
Salem Airport
Located in Kamalapuram, 15 km from the city center, Salem Airport was constructed in April 1993, featuring a 1,350-meter runway.
Later, it expanded to 1,950 meters and now accommodates larger planes. Sprawling across 136 acres, the airport sees around 100 passengers annually.
Accessible from Salem Junction Railway Station, 13.47 km away, it serves Salem, Krishnagiri, and Dharmapuri districts.
Besides its operational role, the airport hosts a pilot training academy and two flying schools: Salem Aviation Services and Salem Flying Club.
Commercial flights aren’t operational, yet they remain pivotal for training purposes and regional connectivity. Moreover, it stands as a critical transportation hub, augmenting the infrastructure network in Tamil Nadu.
Puducherry Airport
Enviably located just 6 to 7 km from the city center, Puducherry Airport is a testament to the region’s convenience and connectivity.
Initially established in 1989 as a base for flying schools and charter flights, the airport underwent a significant transformation with the inauguration of a new terminal in 2007.
Operations began earnestly from 2012 onwards, marking a new chapter in its aviation history.
Serving primarily domestic flights, it witnessed approximately 40,000 arrivals and 38,000 departures during the fiscal year 2018-19.
Not content to rest on its laurels, plans are afoot for expansion, including installing a 500 kW solar plant to bolster sustainability efforts.
Moreover, the government has proposed runway expansion to accommodate growing air traffic, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement.
Puducherry Airport truly epitomizes progress and promise among airports in Tamil Nadu.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tamil Nadu, India’s airports, form a vital network crucial for the state’s connectivity and development.
From the bustling Chennai International Airport to the strategically located Tiruchirappalli International Airport in Tamil Nadu, each serves as a beacon of progress and promise.
Moreover, Tamil Nadu’s aviation infrastructure is poised for further enhancement, with plans to expand and build new airports on the horizon.
Whether it’s facilitating tourism, trade, or regional connectivity, these airports play an indispensable role in Tamil Nadu’s journey towards prosperity.
As the state continues to soar to new heights, its airports stand as testaments to efficiency, convenience, and the spirit of advancement.
FAQ
Q: How many airports are there in Tamil Nadu?
A: There are four international airports serving Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruchirapalli, and Madurai, along with three domestic airports in Salem, Tuticorin, and Puducherry.
Q: Which new airports are coming to Tamil Nadu?
A: Expect exciting developments with Neyveli, Salem, Vellore, Thanjavur, and Ramnad airports on the horizon.
Q: Which is the biggest airport in Tamil Nadu?
A: The sprawling Chennai International Airport, spanning 1323 acres and boasting metro transportation, takes the lead.
Q: Which is the second largest airport in Tamil Nadu?
A: Tiruchirapalli International Airport follows closely, covering 702 acres and offering convenient access to nearby amenities.
